News Release

Perth Saints Prepare to Light the World

On Wednesday 13th November, representatives of various faith groups, political parties and other distinguished guests joined with talented musical performers for a dinner at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Dianella to launch the upcoming Light the World Perth Concert in December.

The evening began with refreshments and networking followed by a wonderful Opera performance of ‘Per la Gloria d’adorarvi’ (For the Glory), a song of love, by Justin Geracitano. Guests were then ushered inside the ‘white Christmas’ themed hall for an appetising three course meal.

                                                  

 

Fiona Maile, Western Australian Director of Communication for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -day Saints opened the evening, welcoming the Honourable Dr. Anne Aly - Federal member for Cowan; The Honourable Albert Jacob - Mayor of Joondalup, Elder Paul Lekias - senior Latter-day Saint leader, as well as civic, interfaith, cultural, community and other distinguished leaders and guests.

Fiona expressed appreciation to those in attendance for the tremendous work they do in the community, all year long.

The inspiration for the Perth concert came from Latter-day Saint Interfaith Specialist Gordon Flake, who gave a presentation on the worldwide "Light the World - One by One" initiative. Gordon explained that the ‘purpose of the concert is to celebrate ways in which the community can provide light and hope to all, one-by-one'.

The concert has been organised jointly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Churchlands, Amana Living and Iceberg Media, along with the amazing support from the Western Australian Charity Orchestra under the guidance of director Samuel Parry.

Consisting of a 60-piece orchestra of volunteers from around Perth, the orchestra started as a one-off project to raise money for charity, according to Samuel. Now, more than ten years in operation, the orchestra performs many concerts throughout the year to raise money for their community service programs.

Performer Natasha Eldridge, a Balardong Noongar Music Artist, will be performing an original piece called ‘Heartland -  Koort Boodja’.  When asked how she feels about being a part of this concert Natasha replied, "It’s so beautiful to see us all come together, with our different cultures, to learn about this beautiful country together."

Rabbi Dovid Feilich from the Perth Jewish Council said, “It’s wonderful to bring different religions together and remind us all of the main purpose of religion - which is to help others. Lighting the world means lifting, giving help, hope and goodness to those around us. Christmas and Hanukah are times of giving and bringing joy to those going through tough times.”

Hon. Albert Jacob, Mayor of Joondalup, commended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their example, remarking, "Light the World is a concept of time and thinking of others. It is about giving, whether it’s gifts or time. What stands out to me is the concept of lighting the world and extending it throughout December. Thank you to the Church for bringing us all together. Thank you for leading by example and allowing us to join along."

A stirring finale performance of ‘You raise me up’ by Stephanie Port, left everyone wanting more and the anticipation to a wonderful concert on the 20th of Dec. 2019.

Elder Paul Lekias concluded the evening, expressing his gratitude to all who made the evening possible, giving a heartfelt invitation for all to join in 'Lighting the World - one by one' this year. He said, "As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we strive to follow the example of Jesus Christ, because He is the 'Light of the World'. To share our light is to share His.”

‘Light the World’ is an initiative that was introduced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2016, encouraging members of the Church to transform their Christmas celebrations into a season of giving. Event calendars are made available, with suggestions each day on things individuals and families can do to 'Light the World'. Those participating are also encouraged to share their experiences through social media. For more information on ‘Light the World’, click here.

Tickets to the ‘Light the World’ concert can be booked either by phone, online, or visiting the Perth Concert Hall Box Office.
        

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